South African fashion inspiration Thebetsile “Thebe” Magugu continues to dazzle the fashion world with his profound cultural tributes, as he unveils his latest Heritage capsule collection, paying homage to the age-old Lobola tradition. Rising to fame after clinching the prestigious 2019 LVMH Young Fashion Designer Prize, Magugu’s creative prowess knows no bounds, as evidenced by his numerous recognition and collaborations with global brands like Dior and Adidas.
In an exclusive interview with British Vogue, Magugu has annually unveiled his Heritage capsule collection, a vibrant testament to his South African heritage. With roots in Kimberley and Johannesburg, Magugu draws inspiration from the rich tapestry of African tribes and customs. Part I of his collection celebrated South Africa’s prominent tribes, while Part II honoured motherhood across diverse cultures.
For his latest instalment, Magugu delves into the centuries-old Lobola tradition, a pre-marriage negotiation where the groom’s family offers cattle or money to the bride’s family. Collaborating with artist Phathu Nembilwi, Magugu crafts a mesmerising collection featuring illustrations depicting scenes of this ancient custom.
The womenswear lineup sees Magugu experimenting with proportions, crafting nine hourglass-shaped shirt dresses adorned with ’70s-inspired collars and stainless steel coin buttons. Vibrant illustrations digitally printed onto crepe-back matte satin fabric breathe life into each garment, celebrating the allure of contrasting colours.
Meanwhile, the menswear collection features collarless long-sleeved shirts paired with tailored trousers and tez-like hats, showcasing a fusion of traditional and contemporary elements. Collaborations with local artisans and renowned brands further elevate the collection’s authenticity.
Central to Magugu’s vision is the diverse cast of influential South African figures who grace the campaign, including Netflix’s Ama Qamata, author Dr. John Kani OBE, and musician Tresor Riziki, among others. Magugu expresses his gratitude, stating, “I’ve reached out to some of the most extraordinary individuals in my country, whom I’m fortunate enough to call my friends, to help bring this vision to life, and I’m deeply grateful for their involvement.”
With each collection, Thebe Magugu continues to redefine South African fashion, seamlessly blending tradition with modernity. His Heritage capsule serves not only as a celebration of culture but also as a platform for showcasing the talent and diversity of South Africa’s leading light,
Picture: @thebemagugu
